Abuja: The Vice-Chancellor, University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Prof. Simon Ortuanya, says the institution is strongly supporting climate finance research to address environmental challenges and strengthen sustainable development efforts. Ortuanya made this known at a Stakeholders’ Inception Workshop, on ‘Innovative Climate Finance for Unlocking Development and Equity in Africa’ (INCLUDING Africa project) on Tuesday in Abuja. The programme was organised by Resource and Environmental Policy Research Centre (REPRC), and the Environment for Development (EfD) Nigeria, UNN.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the vice-chancellor emphasized that climate change had become a major global issue requiring urgent and sustained attention, with climate finance being a crucial element in addressing it. He described climate finance as local, national, or international funding from public, private, and alternative sources, designed to support mitigation and adaptation actions. These actions are essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and strengthening resilience against climate impacts. The university community, including management, senate, and students, is committed to supporting this climate research initiative.
Ortuanya highlighted the significance of climate change, biodiversity, and environmental protection in development, education, and life, adding that UNN is honored to participate in the project. He welcomed participants to the workshop and appreciated stakeholders from Africa and around the world for their attendance.
Earlier, Prof. Nnaemeka Chukwuone, Director of EfD, UNN, explained that the programme aims to introduce the project and engage stakeholders from various sectors to support its implementation. Discussions with stakeholders are expected to provide valuable insights, strengthen the programme, and help achieve its objectives effectively.
Dr. Tenioye Majekodunmi, Director-General of the National Council on Climate Change (NCCC), represented by Mr. Opeyemi Fagbamigbe, Technical Assistant on Climate Finance, stressed the importance of translating climate commitments into equitable and tangible investments. She noted the considerable gap between climate finance needs and actual flows to West Africa, despite existing commitments. Majekodunmi urged for stronger domestic financing through private sector innovation, improved financial institutions, and climate-focused budgeting to enhance resilience and support a greener future.
Mrs. Halima Bawa, Director of Forestry, Ministry of Environment, remarked on the challenges Nigeria faces in climate financing, despite existing policies, frameworks, and targets. She noted that funding remains a major obstacle to implementing climate programmes. However, global climate finance commitments have increased significantly, with Nigeria introducing sovereign green bonds to raise local funds for climate action, in collaboration with the ministry and the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Mr. Gunnar Kohlin, Chairman of the Project Advisory Committee for INCLUDING Africa, noted that the EfD centre has emerged as Africa’s leading centre since 2019, securing major grants from the African Union, Hewlett Foundation, and International Development Research Centre (IDRC) through strong institutional support. The programme aims to address climate finance gaps in West Africa by promoting practical solutions to tackle climate change. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)